13/03/2026
As we continue to spotlight the women transforming the Oklahoma groundwater industry, we are proud to feature Dr. Caitlin Barnes.
Dr. Barnes has been a monumental asset to the Oklahoma Ground Water Association (OGWA) board. She brings a unique perspective that bridges the gap between high-level academia and the practical, boots-on-the-ground needs of our industry.
Her leadership was instrumental in the recent national campaign to bring awareness to groundwater access, education, and industry training. You may have seen the televised PSA that resulted from this work—a powerful reminder that 98% of the world’s fresh water is right beneath our feet, and it relies on trained professionals to protect it.
📺 Watch the PSA here: https://lnkd.in/gAYhhk8n
Beyond her role at OGWA, Dr. Barnes is a powerhouse in Oklahoma’s scientific community: She serves as the Director of Academic Strategy and Innovation for the OSU College of Arts and Sciences. Trained in geology and environmental science, she also serves as an Assistant Professor in the Boone Pickens School of Geology. She has spent the last five years championing groundwater workforce development, ensuring that our industry remains strong, educated, and ready for the challenges ahead.
Dr. Barnes, thank you for your vision and for everything you do to keep Oklahoma's most precious resource safe and accessible. 💧🎓